Large Fossil Caddisfly with a Long-Legged Fly In Baltic Amber

This is a large and nicely detailed, 44 million year old fossil caddisfly (order Trichoptera), preserved alongside a long-legged fly (family Dolichopodidae) and plant debris in Baltic amber. The caddisfly measures about 15mm wide including wings and antennae.

As a reminder, most inclusions in Baltic amber are extremely small so magnification will be needed to make out much detail. Included with your order is a physical photo of the specimen, and we will also email you a high resolution digital copy.

About Baltic Amber

Baltic amber is a fossilized tree resin renowned for its clarity, warm golden hues, and especially its well-preserved inclusions, particularly insects and other small organisms. Formed approximately 44-55 million years ago during the Eocene epoch, Baltic amber originates from vast forests that once covered parts of Northern Europe, mainly around the Baltic Sea region. Countries like Lithuania, Poland, and Russia (notably the Kaliningrad region) are known for large deposits of this amber, which erodes from sediment layers and can be found washed up along the shores.

One of Baltic amber's most fascinating features is its preservation of ancient life, offering a detailed snapshot of Eocene ecosystems. Resin trapped insects, spiders, and other small creatures in its sticky substance, protecting their bodies in stunning, three-dimensional detail.

Buyer Beware: The market is flooded with fake amber, which is often plastics with insects embedded in it. The insect inclusions in amber are almost always tiny. Larger insects are able to struggle free and are not preserved. If you see something that looks too good to be true, it often is. Make sure to buy from a reputable dealer.
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DETAILS
SPECIES
Order Trichoptera & Family Dolichopodidae
LOCATION
Kaliningrad, Russia
SIZE
About 15mm, Amber 44 x 21 x 7mm
CATEGORY
ITEM
#307649
GUARANTEE
We guarantee the authenticity of all of our specimens.